This large-format two-ounce fine-silver maple leaf coin features new technology that creates an optical illusion of a pulsating maple leaf. The coin not only has a cool effect, but it also has a low mintage of just 3,000 pieces, adding scarcity to the innovation and fine silver value....

This large-format two-ounce fine-silver maple leaf coin features new technology that creates an optical illusion of a pulsating maple leaf. The coin not only has a cool effect, but it also has a low mintage of just 3,000 pieces, adding scarcity to the innovation and fine silver value.

The technology works by creating sub-millimetre-scale mirrors on the coins. These mirrors are engineered to exact dimensions and orientations, then engraved on the coining dies used to strike the mirror array into the pure silver blanks. The result: the silver maple leaf on the coin's reverse appears to expand and contract when you tilt the coin, giving the impression that the maple leaf is pulsating.

To create this unique take on the classic silver maple leaf design, the Royal Canadian Mint's research and development team collaborated with the University of Ottawa's Centre for Research in Photonics. Together, these innovators created a new technology that generates dynamic optical effects on coins. The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.